Established in July 2013, Comix Home Base (CHB) is the first preservation-revitalisation project of the Urban Renewal Authority (URA). It is also the first art community in Hong Kong to combine comics and animation with revitalised architecture. Appointed by the URA as the main operator of these premises, Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) endeavours to use CHB as a platform for exchange and interaction in the animation and comics industry.

Comprising a cluster of 10 pre-war Grade II historic buildings built in the 1910s, these historically significant buildings, which used to be working-class homes, have witnessed more than a century of urban development and transition. After refurbishment by the URA, prominent features of the project such as cantilevered balconies, tiled pitched roofs, timber French doors and internal timber staircases are retained and preserved. The revitalised building cluster also includes a 300-square-metre public open space for the enjoyment of the community. There are also studios for comics and animation artists as well as a ‘comix salon’ that collects print and digital comic publications. Other features include exhibition space, multi-function rooms, retail space for comics and related merchandise as well as food and beverages facilities and outlets.

The location of Wan Chai is also significant to the history of local comic development. With prominent artists such as Tony Wong Yuk-long and Seung-gun Siu-bo having grown up in this district, it is seen as a cradle for the local comic scene. In addition to its numerous comics stores as well as Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong held annually at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai has been the gathering spot for comic fans for decades.

Since its inception, CHB has striven to promote local and international comics to locals and visitors alike through various initiatives, including exhibitions, master classes, a comics’ resources centre, artwork launches and seminars. It is dedicated to sharing the latest and the best comics, animations and creative works of related media with the public, as well as bringing art into the community. The establishment of CHB heralds a milestone in the development of local comics.

Want to know more about Hong Kong’s ani-com scene? Check out the Comic Culture Walk while you’re in Wan Chai.